Timbertree Academy, located in Cradley Heath, West Midlands, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection in February 2020. The school’s vision focuses on developing successful, confident, and responsible learners, which is evident in the positive attitudes of the pupils towards their education. The leadership team aims to make learning engaging and challenging, resulting in pupils expressing a genuine love for learning. They feel happy, proud of their achievements, and ambitious about their futures.
The school fosters a sense of responsibility among its pupils, providing numerous opportunities for them to take on leadership roles such as head boy, head girl, and house captains. This involvement helps cultivate well-rounded citizens who respect the feelings and values of others. The school promotes inclusivity, with pupils stating that everyone fits into their school family, highlighting a culture of acceptance and kindness. Safety is a priority, and pupils report that bullying is rare, with staff ready to address any issues promptly.
Timbertree Academy offers a supportive environment where all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities, thrive. The curriculum is designed to be engaging, and pupils enjoy their lessons, which are tailored to meet diverse needs. The school has implemented effective strategies for learning retention, particularly in mathematics, where pupils demonstrate excellent recall of facts and concepts. However, there are some gaps in prior learning in subjects like science and design and technology, which the school is addressing.
Reading is a key focus at Timbertree Academy, with a well-structured phonics program in place from the early years. Teachers are skilled in making reading enjoyable, and most pupils progress well through the phonics scheme. Older pupils continue to develop their reading skills through a carefully sequenced program, and there is an emphasis on reading for pleasure at home.
The provision for pupils with special educational needs is robust, with tailored support ensuring they can access the curriculum alongside their peers. The early years program is well-planned, focusing on developing children’s knowledge and skills through a wide range of activities that encourage exploration and discussion.
Parents and carers generally express positive views about the school, noting improvements in communication. However, some still feel they lack sufficient information regarding their children's progress, indicating an area for further development. The school has made strides in improving attendance, with effective systems in place to encourage regular attendance.
Timbertree Academy provides a variety of extracurricular activities, including trips and visits that enhance the learning experience. Pupils recognize the value of these activities in supporting their education. The leadership team is dedicated to creating a welcoming and stimulating learning environment, and the strong relationships between staff and pupils contribute to the school’s positive atmosphere.
The safeguarding measures at Timbertree Academy are effective, with staff well-trained in their responsibilities. They maintain close communication with external agencies to support pupils and their families. Overall, while the school is performing well, there are areas for improvement, particularly in addressing knowledge gaps in certain subjects and enhancing communication with parents regarding their children's progress. The commitment of the leadership team to continuous improvement is evident, and they are focused on providing the best possible education for all pupils.
